Ado Salisu
The Cross River State Government has announced plans to host a Global Investment Summit in London from November 17 to 19, 2025, as part of its strategic push to attract international investors and mobilize diaspora participation in the state’s sustainable development drive.
Themed “Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainable Growth with the People’s First Agenda of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu,” the summit will showcase Cross River’s economic potential, spotlighting high-impact sectors and investment-ready projects.
Hon. Ignatius Oli, Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee, Cross River State Diaspora Commission, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday, noting that the summit aims to position Cross River as one of the most competitive investment destinations in Nigeria and West Africa.
“This summit is a strategic move to unlock partnerships that will fuel economic growth and align with the state’s People’s First Agenda,” Oli said.
He explained that the event will bring together investors, policymakers, diaspora professionals, and development partners to explore opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, ICT, manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the green economy.
“We aim to mobilise both domestic and foreign capital into high-growth sectors and promote public-private partnership (PPP) models that can drive long-term development,” he added.
According to Oli, the summit will also serve as a business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) networking platform designed to deepen diaspora engagement and investment.
“Diaspora engagement is central to our strategy. We want to connect with Cross Riverians abroad and create channels for investment, mentorship, and knowledge transfer,” he said.
Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, Prince Otu Okor, described the event as a turning point for the state’s global re-engagement strategy.
“We are deliberately creating a platform that links our diaspora community to viable investment opportunities back home,” Okor said.
“Cross Riverians abroad are not just spectators—they are vital partners in the state’s transformation agenda.”
He revealed that the Commission is working closely with the summit’s planning committee to ensure effective diaspora participation across all sessions, emphasizing that the diaspora community possesses the networks, skills, and capital needed to accelerate the state’s economic growth.
Oli further highlighted sector-specific opportunities for investors:
“In agriculture, we’re focusing on commercial farming, agro-processing, and export value chains.
In tourism, we’re promoting eco-tourism, hospitality, and cultural festivals.
Manufacturing, ICT, renewable energy, and infrastructure will also feature prominently in discussions.”
He noted that Cross River is also opening pathways for responsible investments in forestry, mining, and climate-friendly projects such as sustainable timber, eco-products, and carbon credits.
Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is expected to deliver the keynote address and officially open the summit, which will also feature a policy showcase on investment incentives and ongoing regulatory reforms.
Panel sessions will address opportunities in tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, ICT, health, and renewable energy, with a dedicated diaspora session focused on skills transfer, strategic partnerships, and investment facilitation.
Oli expressed appreciation to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, led by Ms. Sharon Dimanche, for their support in mobilizing multilateral partners and strengthening collaboration.
“This summit is not just an event; it is a gateway to partnerships that will define the future of Cross River State,” Oli said.
The Cross River Global Investment Summit is expected to attract global investors, business leaders, development agencies, diplomatic missions, and senior government officials, positioning the state as a major hub for sustainable investment and diaspora-led growth in Nigeria.